An interview with IDCSL’s Commercial Business Development Director, Jamie Charles

Name: Jamie Charles

Job Title: Commercial Business Development Director

Places you’ve worked before: I previously worked at WSP as a design consultant in highways. I then moved into the utilities world with UK Power Solutions, who are an ICP, as a design engineer before moving into commercial and business development. From there, I transitioned across to the IDNO, ESP Utilities Group, where I looked after the industrial and commercial side of the business supporting new strategies in the EV Market and I&C markets.

What attracted you to the industry?

I was curious about the utilities industry having worked as an engineering consultant for WSP. The deregulation of the electrical market fascinated me. I enjoyed being able to provide solutions to customers through engineering, enabling their projects to be delivered safely and within programme expectations.

What do you enjoy most about your profession?

I love the fact that in this industry no two days are the same. They present different challenges that require diligent thought and energy to overcome. I enjoy meeting new people, supporting and overcoming their challenges and the utilities industry enables this. No two characters are the same either!

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I always wanted to be a firefighter, I was in awe of how they saved people’s lives, helped communities and ran into burning buildings to put fires out.

If you could travel back in time and give your younger self career advice, what would it be?

Don’t worry about things outside your control and don’t worry about tomorrow. Focus on the present and support the things that require your attention today.

What’s your biggest career highlight to date?

Moving to IDCSL and taking the business on a journey through the regulated electrical industry.

What’s the most valuable thing that gets you through your working day?

A few things! I like to start the day off with a walk in the morning, which normally sets the day up well, after a strong Espresso of course! Having the family at home is normally a strong point to get me through each day.